Actions:
1. Allow retention of chinook salmon in the Columbia River from Wells Dam upstream to the Hwy. 173 bridge at Brewster.
2. Night closure for the Columbia River from Rocky Reach Dam to the Hwy. 17 bridge at Bridgeport.

Species Effected:
Salmon

Effective date:
October 1 through October 15, 2004

Reason for action:
Prior to October 1, the Columbia R. Wells Dam upstream to the Hwy. 17 bridge at Bridgeport is closed to salmon fishing to protect ESA-listed steelhead that are beginning to congregate near the mouth of the Methow River during the summer. The recreational fishery for hatchery steelhead in the upper Columbia River (including this area) will open October 1. Once the steelhead fishery opens, there is no reason to prohibit chinook harvest during the last 15 days of the salmon season in the upper Columbia River.

Other information:
Daily limit 6 salmon, but no more than 2 adults may be retained. Release COHO. Min. size 12 inches. Statewide freshwater gear rules apply. The area from the Hwy. 173 Bridge at Brewster upstream to the Hwy. 17 Bridge at Bridgeport remains open to salmon fishing through October 15.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on fishing seasons and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at (360) 902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call (360)796-3215 or toll free 1-866-880-5431.